Alphabet for the Visitors - F.A.Q

Antiquities

Many stores on the island are selling beautiful and elegant replicas (the exact copies) of the antiquities found at the prehistoric town of Akrotiri. All replicas are handmade and are the exact copies of the originals.

Architecture

Santorini’s traditional architecture is unique. Many houses are carved in the rocks, all over the island or on Caldera’s cliffs. Most of the houses in the traditional villages are built close to one another, being almost attached for safety reasons. Those houses, still existing in a very good condition, are built strong enough to withstand earthquakes. Nowadays most of them have been renovated and are inhabited by locals or their new owners.

The typical architecture of these houses includes its frontage surfaces with one door, and two windows. Inside the houses are hollow (forget all you know about square buildings) and have one big room used as the living room and a smaller one used as the “master bedroom”. Cave houses have no side walls, since they are carved, however they are very strong. A special characteristic of those houses is that they regulate and create the ideal climate conditions for living, made by the fact that they are embedded in the earth. That means that during the summer they are cool and during winter warm. On your trip to Santorini, even if you don’t stay in one of them, don’t miss the chance to visit a cave house and see the way it is built. Best thing for a cave house is to have sea view, as most of the Caldera ones do!

Awards

Santorini has been many times awarded on international tourism exhibitions and the most valid and popular tourism magazines as one of the top 5 beautiful islands to visit. Santorini has succeeded to be continuously the last 20 years in the top 5 list of the most beautiful islands of the world, winning in many occasions the first place. Santorini is the most popular summer destination in Greece among the Greeks as well as the foreign visitors. The word "Santorini" is one of the most popular words for search in Google with more than 50.000.000 links.

Santorini was ranked world's top island for 2011 by Travel + Leisure Magazine. Santorini was also named "the world's best island" by BBC in 2011.

Atlantis myth

There is a myth about the lost Atlantis telling that a whole island was lost because of a volcano eruption. The myth that Santorini island is the remaining of the lost Atlantis is based on the fact of the great Santorini’s volcano eruption on 1500 BC. It was then that the powerful eruption sank half the island in the deep sea, creating the biggest caldera on the world. The last years the myth turns to be true because of the scientific findings that on the lost part of island existed a big and great town.

Buses (transportation)

The preferred way of transport on the island is by coach as the air-conditioned intercity coach services are comfortable, fast and inexpensive. Each village has a bus station where you can enter the public busses and buy tickets. During the summer months public busses schedule frequent routes to all popular destinations. Alternatively, you can select to tour the island with an organized on road excursion with a guide giving you interesting information about the sightseeing and history. You can buy tickets and make reservations at most of the local travel agencies.

For your transportation on the island you can also use the high quality standard taxis any time you like by calling their office, or you can use and make a reservation for a minibus in case for more persons. Taxis and minibuses can take you where you ask them, they can pick you up and drop you off where you want, all over the island in prices you can arrange. There is a set fare depending on how far you are travelling and you pay this to the driver.

Beauty treatments

Santorini is an ideal place to take the decision for giving a beauty treatment to yourself. Many professionals located in wonderful traditional buildings with great view of the caldera are able to give you beauty treatments all over you body and face. Most of the luxury Caldera’s hotels do offer these services but you can also ask for individual professionals at hotel receptions. On the island you can find many Spa’s at almost all villages as long as you can ask for personal treatments in your hotel room, by asking the reception for more information.

Beaches

A unique characteristic of the island is its black sand beaches as a result of the volcano eruptions. Perisa and Kamari beaches have black sand but there is also the "red beach" which is totally covered in red sand!  Beach sand colour depends on which geologic layer is exposed. There are beaches with sand or pebbles made of solidified lava of various colours: the red beach, the black beach, the white beach, etc. The water at the darker coloured beaches is significantly warmer because the lava acts as a heat absorber.

The most popular beaches with modern hotel facilities, beach bars, taverns and water sports are Perisa and Kamari. At Vlyhada beach you can see the unique geological formations created by the volcanic eruption, while at Red Beach you can see the red mountain above it, created by the volcanic materials thrown by the eruption. The beach at Monolithos is more of a family centred one where you can take advantage of the shallow waters. Colombo Beach, one of the lesser known ones, is mostly frequented by couples and has deep waters and scenery which you will always remember. Amoudi Beach, located at Oia is world wide famous for its caldera view and fresh fish taverns.

Beach bars

There are many and cosy beach bars at Santorini. Visiting the local beach bars is one of the "must do" things during the summer months. Mostly at Perisa and Kamari, beach bars stay open till late at night, serving cocktails and all kinds of drinks. Most of them have live music for relaxing or dance. Don't miss the experience.

Boatmen union

The Santorini boatmen union is biggest union on the island.  At about 100 people, mostly locals, work all year to provide high services in sea transportation. The boatmen Union is responsible for transporting cruise ship passengers to and from Santorini.

"Boatmen union of Santorini" was created in the beginning of 70' by the need of fast and quality sea transportations. Nowadays the fleet is consisting of 25 full services boats. "Boatmen union of Santorini" is considered to be the best sea transportations union all over the country, because of its quality services. Boatmen union of Santorini provides under request high quality private or team transportation all over neighbouring islands.

Caldera

Santorini’s caldera is the biggest caldera on the world. Santorini Caldera is standing up at an altitude of 300 m. over the sea, "dressed" with settlements, houses, and resorts.

Caldera is a cauldron-like volcanic feature formed by the collapse of land following a volcanic eruption.

According to some scientist, the whole island can be considered as a caldera, as Santorini is essentially what remains after an enormous volcanic explosion that destroyed the earliest settlements, on a formerly single island, and created the current geological caldera. A giant central, rectangular "lagoon", which measures about 12 by 7 km is surrounded by 300 m (980 ft) high, steep cliffs on three sides. The main island slopes downward to the Aegean Sea.

The island is the remnant of a volcanic cone whose top was blown off. The inner coast around the caldera is a sheer precipice of more than 300 m drop at its highest, and exhibits the various layers of solidified lava on top of each other, and the main towns perched on the crest. The ground then slopes outwards and downwards towards the outer perimeter, and the outer beaches are smooth and shallow. (Wikipedia)

Canava is the local name of the traditional cave houses, especially been constructed for wineries, some still existing. Nowadays with the word «canava» locals mean the cave houses. Canava (cave) houses are spread all over the island and one of their characteristics is that they are cool during the summertime and warm in winter.

You will see many signs on the island calling you to visit private "canava wineries". Take the chance!

Churches

Santorini has more than 600 churches located all over the island. Most of the churches are open to visit, otherwise you can ask locals for the key. Many churches are carved in the rocks (cave constructions) which are something interesting to see, as also being built on Caldera's cliffs with the view of the volcano. It is said that locals build churches on that area, in front of the volcano, as a gesture of gratitude for keeping them safe. No dress code needed except the Monasteries. Most churches have very beautiful Byzantine style icons and iconography (wall paintings). Many churches under the name "Panagia" are dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Greeks use to give Her different names and characteristics depending on the different locations in Greece. The Cathedral is named "Panagia Ypapanti" and is located in the centre of Fira town, over the Caldera's cliffs. For Santorini was said to be, some years ago, "the island that has more churches than homes..". A good idea is to visit the small private churches in very beautiful locations.

Climate

It's been said that Santorini and Anafi (a neighbouring island) are the only locations in Europe to feature a hot desert climate. Seems to be true. Weather is characterised as mild, with hot summers and cold, but not tough cold, in winters. A medium degree for Santorini is 33oC during the summer and 16oC during the winter. Rains are rare and winds often. Don't forget to take a jacket with you at nights even in the summer time.

Cable car is one of the island’s attractions located over the port of Fira.

It was built in the beginning of the ‘80’s and nowadays it can handle full safety 600 persons per hour from the port to the town and back. Each route lasts 5 minutes. During the route the view of the Caldera is amazing so we recommend you to have your cameras stand by.

Conventions

Santorini has become very popular the last years for it’s capability to host populous conventions from all over the world. Convention centres located at Fira can host up to 400 people. The island has become popular because of its beautiful caldera view, and the high quality cervices. On the island there are few companies specializing on the subject offering services in fully organising a demanding convention.

Climbing

Climbing has become popular the last years as both sides of the mountain overlooking Perisa and Kamari beach, are suitable for the sport, according to its funs. Santorini’s climbing team members have created specific paths for the help of others to climb the mountain. Climbers even professionals from all over the world find Santorini an interesting place for the sport.

Children

Family is very important to local people, and you will find that children are welcomed everywhere, which makes easy a relaxing and enjoyable holiday. It is perfectly normal for even very young children to eat out in the evening with their parents. Almost all restaurants do provide high chairs and in any case is good to ask.

A wide variety of formula milk and nappies are easily available in the pharmacies. It is easy to find baby food in jars and restaurants and hotels are very accommodating and will be pleased to puree food for you. Again, if your child is used to a specific brand it may be better to take it with you. UHT milk is widely available in different sizes of cartons, some with a straw, which is useful for toddlers and older children. Most hotels will provide cots if these are requested in advance. Some hotels have children's clubs and are able to arrange babysitting services, but in any case it is better to ask in advance. There are also some individual professionals who provide these services and you can reach them by asking your hotel desk office. In general, locals and stuff have a welcoming, relaxed approach to children and will go out of their way to be accommodating and helpful. As long as you are flexible, you should have no problems.

Currency

Like in all Europe, Greece is using the Euro.

The European «euro» is available in the following denominations: Banknotes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 Euro, Coins: 1, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents and 1 Euro.

You can obtain currency before travelling to the island or upon arrival. Exchange rates are usually slightly better on the island and local banks.

Usually, cash can be exchanged with charging commission in exchange offices or banks. Cash point machines (ATM) are available at Fira, Kamari and Perisa and accept major credit and debit cards and give instructions in English, German, French and Spanish.

Camping

Santorini has two open air private camping at Fira and Perisa you can visit with campers (mobile homes) or with camping equipment. Both operations are good enough for campers and have low prices. Fira camping is very close to the centre of the town and Perisa is in front of the beach.

Diving has become very popular the last years as the result of the work of professionals divers who own diving centres on the island. At Perisa and Kamari beach you can find diving centres and take information on the scheduled dives or how you can have some lessons -a week is enough for the certification of the basic knowledge-. Diving around Santorini is totally safe if doing it with a professional. Diving centres organise Caldera dives which is a wonderful experience as the underwater area is very beautiful. Another interesting underwater area is Akrotiri where you can see the remains of the ancient city. Pierre Cousteau the youngest son of the world known ocean explorer Jacques Cousteau, is a contributor to a local diving centre, spending his summers on the island performing underwater explorations around Santorini.

Dining overlooking caldera is one of the best experiences one can have on the island. Nothing is as romantic as dining overlooking caldera's lighted cliffs. Many wedding proposals have been made under these circumstances. All across Caldera, from Oia to Akrotiri, the setting is wonderful for you to express the feelings you have... Restaurants can accept special orders under request. Dining overlooking Caldera is not an expensive experience. Everybody with a low cost can enjoy it. It would be nice to combine your meal with a local wine. Don't miss it...

Doctors

You can visit either the public medical station at Fira, offering emergency care services with no or low cost as well as visiting general doctors but for better and direct help you can visit individual doctors offering private services. On the island you can visit and take advice or care by GPs, dentists, paediatricians, heart experts, surgeons, obstetricians, orthopaedics, ophthalmologists, otolaryngologists etc. Information about individual doctors you can take from your hotel or the pharmacies.

On the island there are 3 vets offering services to all kind of animal emergencies.

Disabled travellers

If you have any queries relating to any special needs for your holiday, it is best to check direct with your tour operator before booking your holiday. The resorts, which are located in relatively flat areas, and are, therefore, better suited to wheelchair users are: Kamari and Perisa. Anyone who has difficulty in walking should certainly avoid resorts on steep hills such as Caldera. Obviously, hotel locations vary so do check before.

Driving

You can drive on Santorini with EU, US or International driving licence. Mind to have your driving license, your passport and insurance documents of the vehicle with you in the car. All of the major car rental companies can give you all information needed.

Excavations

Well known as «Akrotiri excavations» the prehistoric town of Akrotiri is one of the points of interest on the island. Famous from the beginning of the 80's the excavations have been seen by millions of people. The archaeological site will be open again after it's renovation during summer 2012.

Easter (local feasts)

At the end of the "Easter period" and after the 40 day fasting, at about the middle of April the Easter celebrations take place. Traditionally, a sheep is sacrificed and the meat distributed to the needy and friends, family and neighbours and also homemade traditional sweets and flowers, are exchanged as gifts. As it's spring time it's a wonderful season to visit the island. All churches are open to visit and the sunlight is just right for amazing pictures. The enthusiasm and the friendly atmosphere for the upcoming summer time is easy to see and feel..

Emergency

For any emergency incident visitors can call the public hospital. Emergency cases medical care is been given for free in the public hospital, depending also on the insurance you have. For any medical treatment provided outside the public hospital you will need to pay. It is not difficult to find English-speaking doctors inside and outside the public hospital. There are pharmacies in most places with trained pharmacists who are able to offer advice on minor illnesses.

Electricity

The mains voltage for electricity is 220V. Central European type wall socket (two-pin plugs) is standard.

An excursion is one of the best things to do on and around the island. Many local tourist offices organise excursions and sea excursions on and around Santorini and the nearby islands. While touring Santorini you can choose to visit all wineries, museums, the traditional villages, churches, topping with the wonderful sunset you can see all across Caldera, from Akrotiri to Oia. A sea excursion is a wonderful experience as you can see the beauty and the geological structure of the island from all sides. Departing from the main port Athinios, you can select to take a day cruise which includes a visit to the volcano, swimming at the area of the hot springs, visit and lunch at Thirasia and Aspronisi. The experience is wonderful and most Santorini visitors choose to spend a day cruising around the island. For you sea excursion you can select from a big traditional type wooden boat to brand new catamarans equipped with all comforts. Hospitality is outstanding in any case. During your sail you will have the chance to take wonderful pictures of the exquisite island, the volcano, the sunset and caldera cliffs with its twinkling lights. Excursions during the evening time and dinner cruises inside the caldera are said to be one of the best anywhere in the world. All excursions are offered in good prices.

Eggplant, the white one, is one of the most famous Santorini local products. It's said to be that Santorini is the only place in the world where the white eggplant grows.

White eggplants are sweeter than the well known purple ones. Almost all local restaurants offer the local white eggplants. It's better to order them fried with a small amount of oil or baked. Local housewives use them in "mousaka". Don’t miss the chance to taste them.

Ferry services operate twice a day during summertime from Piraeus to Santorini. Scheduled trips last 7 to 8 hours. Most of the cases, before reaching Santorini ships reach the ports of Paros, Naxos and Ios. Besides Piraeus there is a good connection from Santorini to most of the Aegean islands as Mykonos, Rhodes, and Crete. Boat tickets are available at tourist offices. During the summer months from April to October, the "high speed boats" and the also fast ones "sea jets" have more than 4 scheduled routes to Santorini. High speed boats take 5 hours to reach Santorini, and they are fast and safe.

Filming

If you are planning to film in Santorini for commercial or broadcast purposes, you will need to obtain the relevant permission in advance. The process usually is quick and easy as you just need permission from the local municipality. Members of the Press do not need filming permission to follow news stories. Many Hollywood films have been filmed on the island, especially with the view of the caldera. Some of the most famous are the «Lara Croft: The Cradle of Life» with Angelina Jolie which was filmed the summer of 2003 and the “sisterhood of the travelling pants” (both parts 1 and 2) with Alexis Bledel and Amber Tamblyn.

All coefficients of all productions have said that Santorini is a wonderful and easy place to work. Filming offices in Athens can provide with any help in organising the local part of the production, their foreign colleagues. Many Greek films have been entirely or partly filmed on the island.

Also, many commercials, video or photo ones have Santorini as their scenery. Last years there was a great interest from people from China that were visiting the island for filming and the making of their commercials. From what they say, "Santorini's amazing beauty, sells...!"

Gastronomy is highly developed on the island since all local restaurants serve from traditional to haute cuisine, using widely local products. Based on fish and fresh vegetables Santorini’s tastes are worldwide famous. Many restaurants on the island are integrated with and follow the rules of the “slow food” leisure, giving their customers the opportunity to taste a variety of plates through a slow procedure, in an aesthetically sophisticated environment with atmospheric music. The leisure of the “slow food” has been established on the island from the beginning of the ‘90’s.

Santorini’s restaurants and cooks have been awarded many times in Greek and international competitions with “golden caps”. Along with Athens, Santorini is famous for its high level of services in the food business.

Accompanying your meal or dinner with local wine is a very nice experience. Don’t miss to place in your holiday schedule a high gastronomy dinner in very reasonable prices. Besides the local plates, on the island you can find many restaurants serving international kitchen, as long as Mediterranean and Italian.

Galleries

You can find lot enough to meet your taste. Mostly at Fira, Oia and Megalohori on the main street, you can find galleries with all kinds of handcrafts and pieces of art. Walking the centre of Fira town and Oia you can find many small and cosy galleries selling replicas, handcrafts, paintings, stones from the volcano prepared for decoration or for faux bijou, souvenirs, accessories, scarves etc. According to the touristic ones, art centred galleries are located at Fira and Oia giving you the opportunity to choose between a big variety of art items like hand made paintings with themes from the island, sculptures, statues with themes from Akrotiri ancient town, mosaics, woodwork as long as embroidery and woven from the local women's cooperative at the centre of Oia.

At Megalohori on the main street you can find 6 galleries - potteries, selling very good quality pottery in a rich variety of shapes and styles. All pottery is made on the same place where galleries are and if you are lucky or under request you can see the procedure of the ceramic manufacturing.

Megalohori has a recent history in the art of pottery, which began by the end of 90's when the first pottery opened by a great teacher of the art. Since then, many other people followed creating on the clay their own designs. Don't miss the chance to visit one.

History

The island of Santorini features one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world, the "prehistoric town of Akrotiri". It is a place of great importance to the international archaeological community. It is currently being renovated and is scheduled to open to the public by May 2012 featuring a new eco-friendly roof that covers the entire ancient settlement.

The "prehistoric town of Akrotiri" was an active settlement around 3,000 BC, being preserved and almost untouched by time since its last inhabitants left it to save themselves from the ancient, yet catastrophic, volcanic eruption. The eruption, which occurred in 1450 BC, wiped out all life from the island and buried the settlement under tons of lava and ash. Unlike Pompeii, no human remains were ever discovered at Akrotiri - the residents clearly had ample warning of the town's destruction. The city was rediscovered in 1860, when workers quarrying volcanic ash for use in the Suez Canal, brought it to light once again.

The city remained untouched due to the tons of soil that covered it and therefore protected it from being damaged over the time. Systematic excavations began under Professor Spyridon Marinatos of the University of Athens in 1967 and continued until his death in 1974, when Professor Christos Doumas continued his work. When visiting the "prehistoric town of Akrotiri" you can walk through the city to view the pottery, furniture, advanced drainage systems and three-story buildings that have been discovered at the site. Millions of people have visited Santorini in anticipation of viewing this archaeological phenomenon.

Houses

Traditional or new ones can give you the comforts you need for the living or the vacation of your dreams. The island has been under intense construction the last 20 years as a result of the increase in the tourism business and the rise of the living standards. The good thing is that most of the new build houses are build outside the traditional villages, so the old houses remained as they were without being demolished. Most of the old houses are being restored with good taste and aesthetic and nowadays provide a place for living to the economic immigrants, or young’s from Greece who have come to the island to work in the tourism business. New build houses have nothing to envy the comforts the modern town apartments, while in addition they offer the advantages of living in the nature, by the sea, and avoiding any traffic. Many Greeks have bought houses on the island for their vacation or even to spend their weekends. Santorini's real estate is worldwide famous, as the island offers from April to October many everyday flights to Athens and all European cities. Last years many houses have acquired wonderful colours such as red, green, purple, pink, or any colour each one likes.

Hand crafts

At Fira and Oia market it's very easy to find stores selling ceramic-pottery, leather goods, music instruments, boxes and baskets, saddles and farm animals leather items, felts, weaving, wood handicraft, etc. Handy craft market is highly developed to offer the visitors the change to select the items they like between varieties of goods. Local business, even 4 star hotels and gourmet restaurants, have decided to decorate their interiors with local or Greek hand made items in terms of keeping the tradition and support the local economy. Cruise ship passengers and visitors while walking Fira streets can make their selections while having a drink with the view of the caldera. Hand craft stores are spread all over the island as well as lengthwise the beaches of Perisa and Kamari during the summer time.

Horseback riding is a good experience to have on the island, and there are at least two professional trainers that can help you ride, at Perisa and Kamari. You can select to ride a horse, a donkey or a mule. The ridings are full safety even for young children and there is the possibility to ride across the beaches, or on the plains, even to ask for a romantic ride for two -plus the trainer- at nights.

The experience of riding a donkey from and to the port of Fira to the town is one of the most known and preferred things to do on the island. Thousands of visitors and cruise ship passengers prefer instead of using the cable car to dire a donkey. The rides are full safety, last half an hour and there is the possibility for families or groups to ride all together, each person on his or her own animal. More than 20 donkey owners and 200 animals are available on a day basis for ridings from and to the town of Fira. The experience is one of the most "must do" on the island and the comments on the internet of the visitors that have ride are very promising!

I  love Santorini ! One of the phrases visitors say with enthusiasm while visiting the island. Also, the "i love Santorini" phrase was one of the most famous T-shirt logos, over the '80's! Besides the "logos" it's one of the phrases easy to listen during the summer time from most of the island visitors. Try the island experience and find out why!

Jewellery

Santorini has a great tradition in Jewellery business as for many years has been the leading place in Greece with the most known and classic jewellery firms from all over the world. Santorini used to be and still is ahead of Athens in the business, as hosting the most famous and expensive brands worldwide. The jewellery business were of the most wealthy on the island attracting high economic status people from all over the world to buy or visit the international jewellery market. Fira town has a street named "Gold Street" were all jewelleries are located. Nowadays, some of them closed or moved to Athens, while some others decided to address to the majority of the people selling lower price jewels as well as faux bijoux. Nowadays at "Gold Street" you can find to the most expensive to the affordable jewels of all types. Last years very famous have become the hand made ones, with stones collected from the island. Walking the "Gold Street" or take a drink at one of the nearby coffee shops overlooking the caldera is one of the islands "musts". Besides jewellery at Fira market you will find many beautiful hand - made rings, necklaces, earrings for men, woman and children.

Language

The official language is Greek. English are widely spoken in tourist resorts, hotels, and stores. Most locals enjoy the opportunity to practice their language skills in English and other languages. Foreign visitors, who would try to speak a few words in Greek, will get answers in Greek like "efxaristo" or "kalimera" as well as being rewarded with smiles! Greek is not said to be an easy language though thousands of people all over the world have successfully tried to learn Ancient Greek, as it is one of the languages taught in best Universities of the world.

Living

Living in Santorini all year long is a wonderful experience as all locals and foreigners admit. The island is populated by 14.000 people according to the last national counting of 2011, of which 2.000 are economic immigrants and lot enough Europeans on retirement, enjoying the benefits of the island living. Locals support widely the local economy buying goods each one makes, like groceries, milk, fish etc. All locals are home owners and in some cases they rent houses to the immigrants. Many locals own their own farms and animals they use to farm their land as long as transporting visitors during the summer months. Living in Santorini during winter is quiet and easy, as tourism business are slowing down and locals spend their time with their children, visiting each other, celebrating local religious feasts, repairing their houses, preparing their business for the summer time, or travelling abroad.

Santorini, because of its caldera and beauty, hosts many artists that visit the island all year long for their inspiration and relaxation. Many Greek books and scripts have been written on the island the last years, and as their writers say, Santorini is an ideal place for short breaks for working and relaxing.

If you wish to stay on the island longer than the three-month period allowed to tourists or to set up a business with or without a Greek partner, you will need a residence visa. Many foreigners live on the island working in the tourism business which gives them many opportunities.

Municipality of Santorini and Thirasia

The Municipality of Santorini (Thera) covers all the settlements of the island as well as the smaller island of Thirasia. The "Municipality of Santorini" with its recent formation was created 2011, after a national reform schedule. The "Municipality of Santorini" includes 12 villages: Akrotiri, Emporio, Episkopi Gonia (Kamari), Exo Gonia, Imerovigli, Karterados, Megalohori, Mesaria, Pyrgos, Fira (town) Vothonas, and Vourvoulos. Thirasia has two small ports and one village called Manolas.

Municipality of Santorini is responsible for a variety of matters on the island, from the cleaning of the public areas to the well being of the stray animals. According with the Ministries and since Santorini is an island, the Municipality of Santorini is also responsible for matters such as public education, public health, public infrastructures, assisting in the organization of summer festivals, checking the quality of services on the local business, taking part in touristic exhibitions promoting the island, creating campaigns to support the tourism business etc. Municipality of Santorini can provide you all information needed depending o a variety of subjects, even if you visit the island for a short period. The Municipality of Santorini is located at Fira town and for any information you can call +30 22860 22231

Museums

More than 14 museums and exhibitions, public and private ones, are open to the visitors during the summer time. Santorini has 2 archaeological museums, the "Museum of Prehistoric Thira" (opened 2004) and the "Archaeological Museum of Thira" (re-opened as it is today 1960) located both at Fira town.

"Museum of Prehistoric Thira" Fira, tel. 22860 23217

"Archaeological Museum of Thira" Fira, tel. 22860 22217

"Santozeum - Exhibition of the Akrotiri Wall Paintings" Fira, tel.

"Naval Maritime Museum" Oia, tel. 22860 71156

"Megaro Guzy collection" Fira, tel. 22860 23077

"Lignos Folklore Museum" Fira, tel. tel. 22860 22792

"Minerals and Fossils Museum" Perisa, tel. 22860 22231

"Byzantine Art museum - Icons and Relics Collection" Pyrgos, tel. 22860 31812

"Museum of Ancient Greek and Byzantine Music Instruments" Oia, tel. 22860 22231

"Koutsogiannopoulos wine museum" on the way to Kamari, tel. 22860 31322

"Art Space Museum and Exhibitions" Exo Gonia, tel. 22860 32774

"Chrysos Museum" also known as the "vanishing Santorini museum" Pyrgos, tel. 22860 31101

"Argyros Mansion - museum" Mesaria, tel. 22860 31669

Bellonio Cultural Centre - Public Library Fira, tel. 22860 24960

All public museums are open daily, except Mondays, 09.00 - 15.00. Private museums or collections are open every day the summer months 9.00 - 15.00 and 17.00 - 20.00 but some stay open all day long.

Mules

"Santorini mules" is one of the island touristic attractions you can see at Fira port. It is very possible to ride a mule to and from Fira port especially if you visit the island with a cruise boat. Rides take up to half an hour and they are totally safe. You can also ride mules or horses at Eboreio village as well as Perisa beach at organised riding schools, or just asking a local to .. help do so!  Besides touristic business, mules are the most hard working animals on the island since during the winters they are preparing the land as well as carrying building materials in inaccessible by car areas, especially at the caldera cliffs.

Mud

The muddy golf at the volcano is famous for its thermal characteristics. If you take the boat to the volcano you will have the chance to swim at the hot springs area and the muddy golf. The experience is one of the island's attractions.

Nightlife

Fira heads the nightlife section with many clubs, bars, pubs and cafes. Large clubs are inside the city's small streets. At Fira clubs you can listen from international mainstream and Greek pop, to rock music. Drinks are good quality and there is no admission fee. Fira is one of the most famous destinations in Greece for its night life entertainment. Fira also have some of the best restaurants all over Greece located on Caldera offering great tastes combined with the magnificent view of the lightened cliffs. Fira and Oia have many stylish and classy cafes and bars over the Caldera, visitors can go to enjoy the sunset or take a rest while drinking their coffees or drinks. Evening and night time is wonderful at the beaches, especially at Perisa and Kamari, since the beach bars offer good reasons to relax and enjoy you with the view of the stars and the sea.

Ouzeri are smaller restaurants where you can eat "mezedes" which are small amounts of food and food salads served with ouzo or wine. Even if you don't have company, don't miss the chance. You can find ouzeries all over the island that offer plates in very reasonable prices.

Octopus

«Santorini octopus» (or oktapodi according to the creators fantasy!) is one of the most famous videos created for the island! It's been made and uploaded on 2008 in France and since then many people have seen it on the youtube

( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2p7z6xew_XU&feature=related ) It's a funny video about the adventures of an octopus walking and flying at Fira small streets. Watch it! It will make you laugh.

Besides the web comic, octopus is one of the best things to taste on the island. Recommended way to eat your octopus is roasted on the grill and you can taste it that way at almost all taverns, ouzeries and restaurants. We would also recommend you to order it with ouzo or wine. Don’t miss the chance to taste octopus on the island!

Pictures

Taking pictures is the best thing to do during your stay on the island. Mind to have your camera charged with you all the time! Santorini pictures will be the best memory to take with you, according to be a very nice activity to organise them when being back home. Thousands of Santorini pictures are available on the web, creating the best impressions. Santorini is said to be one of the most photographed places on earth. Santorini is been photographed by major international photographers and some of its photos have won international contests. During your stay, take advantage of the opportunity to create your personal album of photographs on the island. Santorini's sunset and caldera, as well as caldera's churches and hotels are some of the most favourite themes.

Products (traditional)

Santorini products with designation of origin are famous for their quality and taste. Santorini is famous for its wines known all over the world, it's fava as well as the small cherry tomato paste. All products of the island are high quality and great taste. Many individual producers as well as the "Santo Wines" have managed to make Santorini's products famous and best-selling all over the world. It's very easy to take with you wines, fava, or cherry tomato paste, travelling by plane or cruise boat.

Paths to walk - Gymnastics - Aerobics

Santorini has many wonderful paths to walk all year long. Especially in the spring time walking is a very nice activity while you can walk through the vineyards with the vines been still "naked" without their leaves from the recent winter. Very nice paths for walking you can find all over the island as well as the caldera with the wonderful view. Nice paths for walking you can find from Megalohori to Eboreio, from Pyrgos to the top of the mountain, from Fira to Oia -and backwards- which is a long path taking you about an hour to reach your destination. All the way on that path is lengthwise the caldera which makes the walking a wonderful experience.

Other paths are walking down the caldera from Megalohori, from Oia to from the top of the mountain of Pyrgos to Ancient Thira, etc. Mind to wear sport shoes and to have with you a sweater in case it's cold or windy. During the summer time when the weather is really hot, it would be nice to walk the paths early in the morning and late in the afternoon. Also mind to take your camera with you because it's sure you will find very interesting spots to shot.

Many locals during the winter time prefer to walk along the length of Perisa and Kamari beaches, with the view of the Aegean Sea.

Nice roads -not paths- for walking with little traffic are from Karterados village to the beach of Karterados, from Fira to Exo Gialos beach, from Megalohori to Akrotiri, from Akrotiri to Faros or to the beach of Akrotiri, from Pyrgos to the top of the mountain from the main street, from Pyrgos to Fira along the caldera, from Oia to Armeni, from Oia to Finikia as well as along the beaches of Kamari, Perisa, Monolithos and the eastern beaches of the island at the area of Baxedes.

In case you are interested in walking, jogging, personal training, or aerobics, you can ask at good quality hotel receptions for available trainers since all high standard hotels offer gymnastic programmes. Walking, jogging, personal training, or aerobics can be arranged under direct contact with the trainers. Programmes can be in groups or private.

Aqua aerobics has become very popular the last years because of the interest of many visitors and most of the caldera hotels offer that service under request. In any case if you are interested it's better to ask the hotel if they offer this service.

Pharmacies

Pharmacies are open working hours 8.00 – 14.00 and 17.00 – 21.00 from Monday to Friday. During the weekends one or two stay open all day long and late at night.

Parkour

Santorini has turned to be one of world’s favourite destinations for the sport of «parkour». On October 2011 the "European parkour contest" took place at Fira caldera, where thousands of people perched on the cliffs watched it live! All participants said that Santorini and especially caldera and Fira small streets are perfect for the sport! Since then many individuals and amateurs are visiting the island to practice their skills. Try it, but, be careful..! Videos from Santorini parkour are available on web.

Real Estate

Santorini is an attractive place for running business or investing in the real estate. The island has a big tourist sector that continues to grow yearly, as Santorini is established to be one of the most popular destinations of the world. On the island you can find properties of all kinds which will cover your needs and standards. Santorini has good reasons to be in a very good place on foreign investor list as a beautiful place to live, work or retire. Santorini's property market has plenty of success because of the glamour of the island -Santorini has been declared to be the most beautiful islands of the world- according to its affordable prices in the real estate market. The island's property market was rapidly developed the last years to cover the needs of the Greeks as well as the Europeans looking for a place to buy their second vacation home. The Caldera cliff houses as well as the beach areas of Kamari and Perisa are very popular resorts for Greek and European buyers and there are still many properties for people to buy.

Religious feasts

Religious feasts are a great part of the everyday living on the island, since almost every day there is a church celebrating. During those feasts and after the Church Attendance is over, food depending on the day, wine and sweets, are shared to the participants. In some cases musicians play the traditional instruments and people are dancing. For the ones that have religious interests Santorini is a suitable place to browse them and understand their deeper meaning which is the sense of the offer.

Relaxation

Relaxation is an issue for the island visitors, as the local people are good trained on how to offer you enjoyable, pleasurable and holidays for relaxing yourself. Relaxation while following your holiday programme is an integral part of your stay on the island. Great places for relaxation are the caldera view while enjoying your breakfast, meal or dinner, as well as the beaches viewing the Aegean Sea. Most of the hotels, especially the caldera located ones, can offer you massaging services from professionals as well as offering spa services, pools and Jacuzzis with the view of the caldera and the volcano...

Sunset

Santorini's sunset is famous all over the world and characterised as one of the must see things in one's lifetime. On the web you can see thousands of pictures showing Santorini's sunset from the caldera cliffs. Especially Oia's sunset is been famous for more than 20 years and every summer thousands of visitors go to Oia, to walk the cobblestone path or drink their wine watching the sun goes down. On the other hand, the sunrise is beautiful enough to watch from the eastern sides of the island, as Kamari or Monolithos beach.

Santo wines 

Santo Wines is the cooperative union of the island winemakers founded on 1960. Nowadays Santo Wines Winery and Exhibition located at Pyrgos caldera, is producing more than 30 types of local wines, many types of cherry tomato paste and fava. The Santo Wines Winery and Exhibition is open every day from April to October offering guided tours at the winery, wine tasting experience viewing the volcano and the possibility to select between the biggest varieties of wines on the island. Santo Wines a modern and one of the biggest wineries on the island. On its balconies at various levels over the caldera, you can enjoy your wine while viewing the sunset as the location of the winery is one of the most beautiful on the island. During the summer time at Santo Wines courtyards take place many weddings of foreign visitors as well as concerts of Greek and international performers.

Shopping (also see hand crafts)

Santorini is an ideal place for shopping as in stores you can find local and international items in good prices. Besides the "traditional market" at Santorini stores you can find clothes and items from all over the world as well as European brands, fashion accessories, and a big variety of summer clothes from the most fashionable and branded to the most simple ones. Fira and Oia market is well developed because of the many tourists visiting the island every summer, which, combined with the ones visiting the island for some hours as the cruise boats passengers, the island's market offers items and souvenirs for all tastes. Touristic stores you can also find at Kamari and Perisa offering everything you might need during your vacation, from sunglasses to dresses and from sandals to branded clothes. Besides shopping, at Santorini you can cover all your emergency needs, from repairing your eyeglasses to your clothes, as there are stores and professionals for all needs. Santorini's gold market (the street is still called "the gold street") was the most important all over Greece and still is as you can find pieces of gold of great economic and artistic value. Nowadays at "gold street" you can find golden items for anyone, from the most low prices, to higher ones.. At Fira and Oia market you can enjoy your shopping while walking the narrow streets or drinking a glass of juice, viewing the beautiful caldera. Santorini's market is a very good choice for selecting your gifts for your friends. At stores you can find clothes, shoes, ceramic-pottery, leather goods, music instruments, boxes and baskets, saddles and farm animals leather items, felts, weaving, wood handicraft, etc.

Sawa (information from sawa's website www.sawasantorini.org)

The Santorini Animal Welfare Association is a non-governmental, non-profit organization founded in 1993 by active and devoted animal lovers of the island.

Its purpose is to protect Santorini’s animals - from stray dogs and cats to abandoned donkeys and mules- to care for their wellbeing and become an advocate for their rights. In cooperation with the Municipality of Thira and our local Vets, SAWA insures that many of the island’s stray dogs are neutered and spayed, vaccinated and de-wormed. Following recovery, the dogs are then released back in their original locations. Dogs not fit to live on the streets are taken into SAWA’s shelter and cared for by volunteers until a good home can be found for them in Greece or abroad. Unfortunately the shelter can only accommodate a few dogs at a time.

If you are interested in adopting a stray dog from Santorini please note that it is necessary to make all arrangements before your departure, as it is impossible for them to fly from the island unescorted. Our Association is willing to assist you with this procedure.

In addition SAWA, in cooperation with our local Vet, assists with the treatment and recovery of stray animals suffering from injury, poisoning or disease, while volunteer members provide food and water for the street animals in various locations on the island. In a joint effort between the Municipality of Thira and the Donkey Sanctuary Organization of Great Britain, SAWA oversees the implementation of the “Code of Practice” for all Working Equines. Furthermore, SAWA participates in the recording and health inspections for the licensing of working donkeys and mules, and assists the visiting teams of vets, equine dentists, and furriers with their treatments. Volunteer members of SAWA undertake the daily care of aged donkeys and mules that have retired from their long working days and are enjoying life at the Donkey Refuge in Karterados.

Super markets

On the island you can find almost all well known European brands of Super Markets as well as local ones offering local and Greek products, like meat, groceries and milk. At the island's Super Markets you can find anything you might need. Good choice while staying on the island is to select and buy Greek and local products that have good taste and high quality. At mini markets spread all over the island you can find everything you might need for your everyday needs. Super markets do not sell cigarettes and smoke products; that you can buy at mini markets. Super markets on the island participate in charitable activities to support the vulnerable groups in local level.

Taxis

Taxis are easy to spot as they are all grey in colour. Taxis can be found easily by calling their office at Fira at 22860 25555. Taxis work on agreed and fixed rates for the distances. You can call a taxi for an immediate drive by calling the taxi station, or arrange a taxi drive under appointment. Available taxis you can find at Fira taxi station, at the airport and the port when planes and ships arrive.

Traditional products see (products traditional)

Santorini products with designation of origin are famous for their quality and taste. Santorini is famous for its wines known all over the world; its fava as well as the small cherry tomato paste. All products of the island are high quality and great taste. Many individual producers as well as the "Santo Wines" have managed to make Santorini's products famous and best-selling all over the world. It's very easy to take with you wines, fava, or cherry tomato paste, travelling by plane, boat or cruise boat.

Underwater activities

Exploring the underwater world around he island is an amazing experience. Explorations are very interesting and easy to participate attending the programme of one of the diving centres existing on the island, offering the possibility to explore the underwater treasures of Santorini. You can find diving centres at Kamari and Perisa beaches giving the possibility to go and enjoy diving at caldera and other sea areas around the island. Diving in Santorini is full safety while being arranged by a diving centre. At Santorini diving centres visitors can participate in scheduled dives for amateur or professional divers, attend diving seminars, take a PADI certificate,

or even arrange private diving tours.

The youngest son of the famous Sea Explorer Jaques Cousteau, Pierre, lives and works on the island for many months every summer, and as a partner of a diving centre, is saying that exploring Santorini's underworld is an amazing experience. The summer of 2011 Pierre Cousteau and his partners placed in an underwater area close to Akrotiri, easily accessible to divers, a marble plaque dedicated to the memory of his father. This underwater memorial has been already worldwide well known to the community of the divers as well as capturing the attention of many visitors that want or plan to see it.

Volcano

One of the island's greatest attractions is the volcano. Volcano is a separate isolated island towards Santorini. One of the best things written for Santorini's volcano is

that is "it's creator and guardian". Volcano is easy accessible by a 10 min. distance by boat and we recommend you to explore it on a guided tour, so you can learn of its history and walk over the alive craters. Santorini's volcano is characterised to be alive and during the year 2011 some scientist identified volcanic activity, claiming that lava is being concentrated inside the magma chamber beneath the volcano. This procedure caused some earthquakes all of them less than 3 on the Richter scale, in a phenomenon characterised by the scientist as totally safe without causing any worry.

According to the Wikipedia, the devastating volcanic eruption of Thera has become the most famous single event in the Aegean. It may have been one of the largest volcanic eruptions on earth in the last few thousand years, with an estimated 7 on the VEI (volcanic explosively index). The violent eruption was centred on a small island just north of the existing island of Nea Kameni in the centre of the caldera. The caldera itself was formed several hundred thousand years ago by the collapse of the centre of a circular island, caused by the emptying of the magma chamber during an eruption. It has been filled several times by ignimbrite since then, and the process repeated itself, most recently 21,000 years ago. The northern part of the caldera was refilled by the volcano, then collapsing once more during the Minoan eruption. On Santorini, a deposit of white tephra thrown from the eruption is found lying up to 60 m (200 ft) thick, overlying the soil marking the ground level before the eruption, and forming a layer divided into three fairly distinct bands indicating different phases of the eruption. New archaeological discoveries by a team of international scientists, in 2006, have revealed that the Santorini event was much more massive than previously thought; it expelled 61 cubic kilometres of magma and rock into the earth's atmosphere producing an estimated 100 cubic kilometres of tephra. Some archaeologists connect the Santorini volcano erruption with the "Exodus from Egypt" in the Bible, the Biblical dating of Moses in Egypt, the destruction of the Minoan civilization and the myth of the "lost Atlantis" which is led

to understand that it was the "lost" half part of the island. Besides the scientific theories, Santorini's volcano is a worth to see natural monument, attracting thousands of visitors every year.

Vinsanto

Visanto is the most famous wine produced on the island. Visanto is a deep red, sweet and high v.o.l. wine, looking and tasting like liquor. However being red, Visanto is been made by white grapes dried in the sun for about 15 days, before the remaining juice is being squeezed for the wining procedure. Before bottling the Visanto wine must remain in wooden barrels at least 3 years.

Visanto is drunk in small amounts, much smaller than a regular wine, and it's mostly drunk as an aperitif, before or even after food. Some prefer to drink Visanto with fresh fruits. Vinsanto is supposed to be the most precious wine of the island. Visanto can be aged and matured and there are some bottle existing on the island with 20 year Visanto or even more.

According to the Greek mythology, Vinsanto was the special wine of the Ancient Greek Gods. Vinsanto is definitely not the table wine for the food, as it is better to be drunk as an aperitif, before or after lunch or dinner.

Vedema

Vedema is the word in the local dialect that detects the meaning of the beginning of collecting the grapes. Vedema season begins the second half of August and ends by September 15th. At that period and since it's limited, almost all local people of all ages, gather the grapes. Vedema in the minds of the local people is a big "event" and a celebration, since it's the time for the return of all the labours of the year. It's the time to collect the fruits of their efforts during all year long. To celebrate the beginning of the "Vedema" Santo Wines organises every year a feast to honour farmers for their hard work and efforts. Local farmers, keeping the tradition, use to sing songs specially written for this period of the year, called the "Vedema songs". Those songs wish all farmers a good harvest and a successful winemaking. Many journalists, writers as well as filmmakers have closely followed, gathered material and have presented this procedure to the world. Many articles and films have been made talking about the "Vedema season in Santorini". If being there at that time of the year, don't miss the chance to see, learn about and take some pictures of "Santorini Vedema". Some wineries also let visitors to see the procedure from receiving the grapes, assorting them, putting them into fridge for some hours and finally compress them to get their juice. If being at Santorini at that time, don’t miss the chance to watch these proceedings.

V.I.P.’s (celebrities)

Santorini is preferred by many Greek, European and American celebrities, star system members, actors, singers, musicians and politicians for their holidays.

Santorini offers them the quality services they need according to the privacy offered by most, and mainly caldera hotels. The beautiful and relaxing view of the caldera, the nice beaches and the local cuisine, make the difference and their stay wonderful. On the web you can meet with many videos and comments about "stars holidays at Santorini".

Water

Tap water is not safe to drink therefore bottled water is recommended, which is readily and affordably available all over the island at Super Markets and mini markets. Tap water is used for bathing, washing dishes and clothes as well as cooking in some cases.

Weather

Santorini’s weather is characterized as mild and sunny during all year long. During the summer months, from May to September the average temperature is 34oC, although nights use to be much colder, so for sure, you will need a pair of winter clothes, or a jacket. Some days July and August temperatures are much higher. A common phenomenon at summer is the mist, intense sometimes, because of the change in temperature between day and night. Santorini has mild winters with a few rainfalls and long sunny periods with average temperatures at 22oC.

For information on the climate and up-to-date weather forecasts visit www.meteo.gr 

Walking (also see "paths")

Walking Santorini is a very interesting activity while you can see and discover the land of the island. Santorini has wonderful places for walking or jogging, in paths

fields, along the caldera, across the beaches, or inside the villages. Mind to hold a camera with you to shot the beautiful spots you will meet. Very nice areas for walking you can find all over the island as well as the caldera with the wonderful view. Very nice time for walking the island is spring time when the weather is mild and the nature "awakes" from winter. Walking Santorini you will meet the silent beauty of the island.

Wall paintings of Akrotiri

Some of the famous wall paintings of Akrotiri prehistoric town are exhibited in the "Museum of Prehistoric Thera" at Fira. There, you can see the famous paintings of the «blue monkeys», the "boxers" and the "flower collectors". However, you can see the full collection of the reproductions of the authentic wall painting at "Santozeum" Museum and exhibition at Fira. Besides being reproductions, the collection is complete and high artistic status, that's why, is preferred by thousands of people every year. The collection of the reproductions was made 1998 in France, and since then is open to the public.

Akrotiri wall paintings were and still are some of the most precious archaeological findings on the island indicating the high living standards and the techniques in the art that existed in the ancient town of Akrotiri.

Wireless internet

Free wireless internet spots you can find at Fira central square and at almost all coffee shops and restaurants all over the island.  Connections and speed are good enough in almost all cases so you can surf or work on the web while being on the island. All hotels offer wireless internet in good speeds, but in some cases they charge it separately, so it’s better to ask in advance. Internet speeds on Santorini reach the 18 kbps/sec so you won’t have any problems working on the internet.

Weddings

Santorini has become of the most preferred and famous places on earth for a wedding. Thousands of weddings take place every year on the island, but each one is unique and remains unforgettable because of the professionalism of the local companies. On the island there are many full service companies that can arrange your wedding ceremony, which you can contact, thought the interne. A proper time to contact an office is from three to six months earlier, for the whole event to be prepared as you desire and dream. All companies on the island are able to offer you an elegant, upscale wedding and vow renewal ceremonies, from a small almost private one, to the largest full catered event. All organisers can make your dreams come true for this unique time in a couple's life, offering full organisation from a traditional open wedding in a church to a romantic ceremony on a cliff overlooking the caldera, the volcano and the sunset. Wedding companies, consultants, coordinators, and all the professional stuff, besides the ceremony, can organize the whole wedding trip and honeymoon for you and your families, starting from the time you arrive on the island until the time you leave, creating under you preferences and requests, a whole plan with activities and things to do to relax and enjoy an unforgettable experience.

Wineries

Santorini has more than 12 wineries. All of them are private ones besides the Santo Wines which is the cooperative union of many of the islands farmers and winemakers. Winemaking is a great tradition on the island since Santorini has one of the oldest vineyards all over the Mediterranean, according to the scientist and the archaeologists.

All wineries are open to visit during the summer time, providing their own tour each, or alternatively you can visit most of them choosing a “wineries tour” many local tourist offices offer. Visiting the wineries and buying local wine is one of the most important selections for you to do on the island. When buying wines, wineries will wrap it for you in a way to be easy to transport by plane or boat.

Besides the wineries, there are many families on the island producing their own home made wine, which you can buy by asking them.

For the list of the wineries and their contact numbers you can see "Santorini - information" page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the local cash machines?

Cash machines (ATMs) are available on the island, accepting major European credit and bank cards and instructions are often available in English.

Can I use my credit card?

International credit and debit cards are widely accepted in shops, restaurants and hotels on the island. However it is advisable and more practical to carry cash for the smaller shops and cafes.

What is the local currency?

The local currency is the European Euro (EU) available in the following denominations: banknotes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 500 EU coins: 1,5,10, 20 and 50 cents and 1 EU. Cash can be exchanged with commission at banks. Exchange rates are published daily in newspapers and can also be found in web site of the National bank of Greece www.nbg.gr

What should visitors dress on the island?

There are no hard and fast rules but it is best to use common sense when deciding what to wear. If staying on a beach resort it is good to dress as you feel comfortable, mostly with beach wear or walking casual clothes and comfortable shoes. Mind to have a jacket with you after the sunset.

Can I drive on the island?

Driving on the island is easy but you need to be careful on narrow streets, driving along the cliffs, respecting strictly the speed limits. Visitors may drive with an international driving license. You should have your driving license, your passport and insurance documents of the vehicle with you. All of the major international car rental companies, as well as the local ones can give you all required information.

What is the mains supply voltage, will I need an adaptor?

The mains voltage for electricity is 220V. Central European type wall socket (two-pin plugs) is standard on the island. American visitors should mind to carry adaptors (from 210 to 220V) with them.

Do I need to know Greek in order to communicate?

English is island’s second widest spoken language and you will easily find English speakers all over at holiday resorts, hotels and restaurants. Restaurant menus, signs and other information for foreigners are printed in English. Tourist offices and hotels can provide you with translators to almost all spoken languages. Organized excursion are made in English, German, French, Spanish, Chinese, etc.

Will I be able to use my mobile phone?

The major GSM operators are Cosmote, Vodafone and Wind. You can use your mobile phone if your provider has enabled international roaming. However if you intend to stay for a long time or make several calls, it may be preferable to buy a local prepaid SIM card. Take your mobile phone and passport to a mobile phone shop where your new SIM will be registered. Mobile coverage networks works fine all over the island. Internet service is available all around the island.

Are there mosquitoes on the island?

In the summer months there can be mosquitoes in some areas so it is advisable to use suitable repellent. However, no medical incident has been ever observed.

What are the opening times for shops and other services?

(during the summer months April - October)

Museums: 9.00  to 15.00 everyday
Pharmacies: 8.30 to 14.00  and 17.00 - 21.00 Monday to Saturday. 24-Hour duty pharmacies are available on a rota basis that the names and addresses can be found on any pharmacy.
Banks: 8.00 to 14.30 Monday to Friday.
Post Office: 8.00 to 14.00 Monday to Friday.
Shopping Centres and stores are open seven days a week and stay open until late.

Is Santorini safe?

Santorini is one of the safest locations and islands in the world with international authorities ranking it as one of the safest holiday destination in Europe.

As in any case travelling abroad, be careful with your personal possessions and never leave items unattended. You will find the police helpful and friendly as well as the special tourism police for the travellers with personnel speaking English.

Is it easy to plan my wedding on the island?

Easier than you can imagine. You can find all needed information at many sites on the internet, providing you with all needed information and requirements.

More than 2.000 visitors had their wedding on Santorini last year leaving the island fully satisfied. Santorini is one of the favourite and most known international wedding destinations, being on the top of the "most preferd places on earth for a wedding".